Hanna Yates Biography: Sports Reporter & Host for Bally Sports & Carolina Hurricanes
Hanna Yates is a prominent sports reporter and host currently working for Bally Sports, primarily covering the Carolina Hurricanes.
Career Overview:
Hanna Yates has built a versatile career in sports broadcasting. She currently serves as the television reporter for the Carolina Hurricanes, and hosts FanDuel Sports Network South’s pre- and post-game show, “Hurricanes LIVE.”
In addition to her work with the Hurricanes, she also spent the 2024 season as the television reporter for the Atlanta Braves on FanDuel Sports Network South/Southeast.
Before joining the Hurricanes organization, Yates worked as a sports anchor and reporter for KSDK, the local NBC affiliate in St. Louis, Missouri.
Her experience also includes co-hosting a radio show on KFNS in St. Louis, and working as an in-arena host for the St. Louis Blues during intermissions.
Education and Early Career:
Yates’s passion for sports and storytelling began early. She played competitive soccer and, while initially considering a career in law, realized her calling in sports media during high school.
She attended the University of Missouri-Columbia, where she earned a degree in Broadcast – Television Journalism with an emphasis in sports and a minor in business.
During her time there, she was involved with KOMU-TV 8, the university-owned NBC affiliate, covering news and high school football. She also produced and anchored sports coverage and contributed to the outlet’s website.
Her early career also involved working in sports radio at 590 The Fan in St. Louis, where she co-hosted “The Hard Line.” This blend of radio hosting and television reporting experiences prepared her for her current role.
Role with the Carolina Hurricanes:
With the Carolina Hurricanes, Yates’s role is multifaceted, encompassing both hosting and reporting.
She participates in the “Hurricanes Live” pregame show with a studio analyst, and provides reporting hits and interviews during intermissions.
She focuses on storytelling, highlighting triumphs or new aspects of the game, and seeks to provide insights from players and coaches.
Personal Interests
- Grew up a fan of the St. Louis Blues and played competitive soccer.
- Big supporter of Mizzou Tigers football—attended games regularly with her dad.
- Loves storytelling, college football, and the challenge of live broadcasting.
Parents and Siblings
Hanna Yates was born in St. Louis, Missouri, to her parents Zane Yates and Lora Bridgford Yates. Growing up, she was surrounded by a supportive family who encouraged her interests and ambitions.
Hanna has siblings who have always given her a sense of camaraderie and competition, further fueling her drive to succeed.
Her parents, Zane and Lora, played a significant role in her upbringing, instilling values of hard work, dedication, and the importance of education.
This foundation helped Hanna develop a strong work ethic and a passion for sports and journalism from a young age.
Career of Hanna Yates, Host and reporter for the Carolina Hurricanes
Hanna Yates is an American sports journalist and broadcaster, widely recognized for her insightful and passionate coverage of the Carolina Hurricanes in the National Hockey League (NHL).
With a strong background in radio, television, and digital media, Yates has built a career rooted in sports storytelling, fueled by her Midwestern upbringing, athletic background, and a deep love for hockey.
Professional Career
KFNS 590 AM – Radio Roots in St. Louis
Yates launched her professional career at KFNS 590 AM, a well-known sports radio station in her hometown.
She served as both a digital sports reporter and on-air host, co-hosting programs such as “The Cam Janssen Show” with former NHL enforcer Cam Janssen, and “The Hard Line” with former football standout T.J. Moe.
This experience helped her develop a distinct voice and presence on air, blending humor, analysis, and fan engagement.
She also worked as an in-game host for the St. Louis Blues, providing live fan interaction and behind-the-scenes insights—her first significant step into NHL media coverage.
KSDK NewsChannel 5 – Expanding TV Credentials
In October 2019, Yates transitioned to television full-time, joining KSDK, the NBC affiliate in St. Louis, as a sports anchor and reporter.
Over the course of three years, she covered everything from high school football and college sports to professional events, refining her delivery and editorial style.
During this period, she also freelanced with the ACC Network, covering major collegiate events like the Indoor Track and Field National Championships. Her dual roles across platforms demonstrated a growing versatility.
Bally Sports South / FanDuel Sports Network – NHL Spotlight
Yates took a major leap in her career in 2022 by joining Bally Sports South as the pregame, postgame, and in-game reporter for the Carolina Hurricanes.
Her dynamic presence and ability to break down complex plays with clarity quickly won over fans.
Following the network’s rebrand to FanDuel Sports Network in 2024, Yates continued to thrive, expanding her reach to other major leagues such as MLB and NBA, while still maintaining her flagship role with the Hurricanes.
She gained widespread praise for her 2023–24 Stanley Cup Playoffs coverage and insightful segments during the NHL trade deadline, including her feature on Dmitry Orlov and Evgeny Kuznetsov’s chemistry after Kuznetsov’s acquisition by the Hurricanes.
Hanna Yates, Atlanta Braves Broadcast Team – MLB Expansion
In 2024, Yates further broadened her broadcasting portfolio by joining the Atlanta Braves’ broadcast crew, taking advantage of the non-overlapping NHL and MLB seasons.
This expansion showcased her ability to shift seamlessly between leagues while retaining the same high standard of storytelling and fan interaction.
Podcast Appearance and Personal Insights
Yates appeared on the “Iced Tea with Meghan Lamontagne” podcast, where she revealed that she once nearly walked away from the media industry altogether.
A spontaneous visit to PNC Arena six years prior, however, became a “full circle” moment that reignited her passion and eventually led to her current role with the Hurricanes.
Challenges and Triumphs
Navigating the male-dominated world of sports media, Yates often faced pressures to conform or question her worth. Instead, she leaned into authenticity and hard work, building her credibility game by game.
Her resilience, adaptability, and ability to connect with athletes and fans alike have carved her a respected niche in sports journalism.
Notable Coverage
Hanna Yates has covered several notable sports events and stories throughout her career. Here are some highlights:
- Stanley Cup Playoffs: Hanna has provided coverage for multiple Stanley Cup Playoff runs, offering insights and analysis during the intense playoff season.
- Carolina Hurricanes’ Eastern Conference Playoff Run: She has been a key part of the broadcast team for the Hurricanes’ playoff journey, bringing excitement and detailed reporting to fans.
- Joint Player Interviews: Hanna and her colleagues decided to pair players Dmitry Orlov and Evgeny Kuznetsov for a joint interview, showcasing their chemistry and friendship. This unique approach received positive feedback from fans and viewers.
- NHL Trading Deadline Coverage: Hanna covered the NHL trading deadline, discussing significant trades and their impact on teams, including the Hurricanes’ acquisition of Evgeny Kuznetsov.
- Postgame Shows: Hanna’s engaging and informative postgame shows have become a staple for Hurricanes fans, providing a deeper look into the games and player performances.
Personal Growth and Professional Development
Hanna has expressed excitement about her new role and the opportunities for personal and professional growth it offers.
She has enjoyed being part of a team with a strong track record of success and looks forward to covering more exciting games and stories in the future.
Hanna Yates works with a talented team at Bally Sports South (now FanDuel Sports Network) and the Carolina Hurricanes broadcast team.
Some of her colleagues include:
- Jay Tuohey: Graphic Designer & Videographer
- Noah Davis: Bally Bar Operator
- W. H.: Director of Talent
- Marc Magnone: Florida Region Local Sales Manager
- Abby Labar – Former in-game reporter
- Vanessa Lambert: Coordinating Producer
- Stephen Hill: Writer and Producer
These colleagues contribute to the dynamic and engaging sports coverage that Hanna is a part of.
Financial Status
Yates earns an estimated annual salary ranging between $40,000 and $110,000. Her net worth is believed to be between $1 million and $5 million, reflecting her success in sports journalism
Personal Life of Hanna Yates
- Hanna Yates’ Birthday and Age: Hanna Yates was born on October 17, 1993, making her 31 years old as of 2025.
- Zodiac Sign: The zodiac sign of Hanna Yates is Libra.
- Hanna Yates’ Ethnicity: Hanna is of Caucasian ethnicity.
- Nationality: She is American by birth.
- Relationship Status: Hanna has kept her personal life private, and it is unknown if she is currently involved with someone.
- Hanna Yates’ Husband: There is no publicly available information about Hanna’s spouse or partner.
Hanna Yates Height:
- Height: Approximately 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm), based on her on-camera presence and proportions next to athletes and co-hosts.
- Weight: Roughly 130–140 pounds (59–64 kg), consistent with a lean, athletic build typical of sports media professionals.
Estimated Body Measurements
- Bust–Waist–Hips: Likely around 34–26–36 inches (86–66–91 cm). These reflect a balanced silhouette often seen in broadcast journalism.
Distinguishing Features
- Hair Color: Appears to be blonde, often styled in soft waves or straight layers.
- Eye Color: Likely blue or light hazel, based on high-resolution media shots.
- Build: Slim and athletic, with a poised on-camera presence.
- Style: Professional yet approachable—often seen in tailored blazers, team-branded gear, or casual chic outfits during field reporting.
Who Is Hanna Yates?
- Profession: Sports reporter and host, currently with Bally Sports South, covering the Carolina Hurricanes in the NHL.
- Broadcast Experience:
- Former co-host of The Cam Janssen Show on 590 The Fan in St. Louis.
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- Sports anchor and reporter for KSDK-TV, an NBC affiliate.
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- In-arena host for the St. Louis Blues, blending live fan interaction with game coverage.
- Education: Graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia, where she began her media journey at KOMU-TV 8.
- Reporting Style: Known for her athlete-focused storytelling, combining live interviews with studio analysis to deliver compelling sports narratives.
Social Media Presence
Hanna Yates is active on social media. She has a presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
On her Instagram and Twitter accounts, she engages with fans and provides insights into her work as a sports reporter.